to lower the gender gap in their workplaces, from recruitment and retention strategies to flexible work policies and mentorship programs.
At the same time, challenges remain. Women are still underrepresented in executive positions, and we continue to see barriers when it comes to career advancement, visibility and access to opportunities. That’ s why the work we do at Women of the Vine & Spirits is so critical— we are creating pathways, providing resources and building networks that help women not only enter the industry, but thrive and lead.
JACI FLUG
Partner, Greenspoon Marder LLP
How did you first get started in the beverage alcohol industry?
My journey in the beverage alcohol industry began in 2012 as general counsel at the New York State Liquor Authority. In this role, I guided the Board on disciplinary, licensing and trade practice matters. It was just when e-commerce was impacting alcohol.
Did you have a mentor in the industry? Have you been a mentor to others?
Liquor Authority Dennis Rosen was an instant mentor to me. He was a dedicated public servant who, every day, reminded all agency staff that we were there to make life easier for law-abiding businesses and to establish a level playing field. He led by example, treated everyone with respect and never worried about the political repercussions of doing the right thing.
Additionally, Keven Danow, a seasoned beverage alcohol attorney was
( and still is) extremely generous with his time and knowledge to educate me about these beverage alcohol laws that are often hard to understand. Keven taught me not only the spirit of the law but also the practical implications of business practices. He’ s simply an expert in the field who has always graciously shared and aided me in any way. He’ s the most generous grumpy man I know.
At Drizly, I led the company’ s women’ s resource group. I officially served as a mentor to some employees and unofficially to others. Drizly created an environment that believed deeply in professional growth. I loved helping younger team members take on challenges professionally or personally. Being a mother of two on the executive team meant a lot to women in the company.
Have you faced challenges as a woman in a leadership position in what’ s still a male-dominated industry?
As general counsel at the Liquor Authority, dealing with industry members, I was often the only woman in the room with men old enough to be my father. They were men not accustomed to hearing no, and I was often the regulator saying no. It was a challenge. Additionally, in private practice, I now deal with the other end of the spectrum, young male start-up founders. We certainly run in different circles but always find common ground in discussing the business.
How has your company benefited from having women at the table making decisions?
Greenspoon Marder has excelled by empowering women in key decision-making roles. Our firmwide deputy managing partner and four of the five C-Level positions are held by women, alongside numerous female directors, managers and partners leading practice groups such as Litigation, Intellectual Property, and Immigration.
These women bring unique perspectives and innovative strategies that have driven our strategic growth and enhanced client satisfaction. Their leadership fosters a collaborative environment that values diverse viewpoints. This culture not only strengthens our internal dynamics but also resonates with clients who appreciate our commitment to inclusiveness.
Do you think the beverage alcohol industry has improved as far as women and gender inclusion in the past five years?
The industry has made great strides in the last five years. You can tell because there is now typically a line at the ladies ' room at the industry conference. It wasn’ t always that way. Organizations like Women of the Vine & Spirits have certainly helped. That being said, when you look at the C-Suite, you still tend to see women limited to the legal and HR roles.
What advice do you have for other women looking to get into the beverage alcohol industry?
Talk to other women- they will help you. Women help women! Women want to help women! Don’ t be shy. There’ s an entire network waiting to help you.
REBECCA MAISEL
SVP- Legal & Governmental Affairs, Gulf Distributing Holdings, LLC
How did you first get started in the beverage alcohol industry?
Gulf is my family’ s company— I’ m a third-generation owner-operator. So, I
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